Work

Pharmacovigilance Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Healthcare Professionals in Nepal: A Systematic Review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: ABSTRACT Background and Aims Healthcare professionals' (HCPs') knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding pharmacovigilance (PV) remains underexplored in Nepal. This systematic review aims to assess the current state of KAP of PV among HCPs in Nepal, identify existing gaps, and propose interventions to strengthen the PV system. Methods A systematic review was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Nepal Journals Online, and the Cochrane Library, as well as gray literature sources, to identify studies that assessed the KAP of PV among HCPs. The data were extracted, analyzed, and synthesized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of PV among HCPs in Nepal. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute tailored quality assessment tools were used for identifying the internal validity of included studies. Results A total of 176 studies were initially assessed, and 15 were analyzed, resulting in a sample of 2725 respondents in the final analysis. Most studies were cross‐sectional ( n = 12, 80%), with a few focusing on pre‐ and postintervention ( n = 3, 20%). The review found that while HCPs in Nepal generally have a positive attitude toward PV, significant gaps exist in their knowledge and practice. Many professionals recognize the importance of reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs), yet they often lack a sufficient understanding of PV processes and demonstrate suboptimal reporting behavior. Factors contributing to these gaps include inadequate training, unavailability of ADR reporting forms, and limited awareness of the procedures required for effective PV. The heterogeneity among the studies, varying methodologies, and potential bias were also noted as limitations. Conclusion This systematic review highlights the critical need to enhance the KAP of PV among HCPs in Nepal. Addressing the identified gaps through targeted interventions, such as regular training, improved access to reporting tools, and the integration of PV into the healthcare curriculum, is essential. Trial Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42024547568).

Source: Health Science Reports

DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.71737